JP2023184701A - Control device - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a control device for providing a comfortable air mattress.SOLUTION: When an input is received or when a predetermined time comes, a control device can perform a first operation to allow inner pressure of at least ones of multiple air cells to be a first value, and can perform a second operation to allow inner pressure of at least ones of the multiple air cells to be a second value lower than the first value after performance of the first operation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to a control device.

There are air mattresses that use air cells. A control device controls the air mattress. More comfort is desired in air mattresses.

JP2016-29960A

Embodiments of the present invention provide a control device that can provide a more comfortable air mattress.

According to the embodiment, the control device performs a first operation of setting the internal pressure of at least one of the plurality of air cells to a first value when receiving an input or when a predetermined time comes; After the operation, it is possible to perform a second operation of setting the internal pressure of the at least one of the plurality of air cells to a second value lower than the first value.

Embodiments of the present invention can provide a control device that can provide a more comfortable air mattress.

FIGS. 1(a) to 1(d) are schematic diagrams illustrating an air mattress and a control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the air mattress and control device according to the first embodiment. FIGS. 3(a) to 3(g) are schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of the air mattress and control device according to the first embodiment. FIGS. 4(a) and 4(b) are schematic diagrams illustrating usage states of the air mattress and control device according to the embodiment. FIGS. 5(a) to 5(d) are schematic diagrams illustrating an air mattress and a control device according to an embodiment. FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b) are schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of the air mattress according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a graph diagram illustrating the operation of the air mattress according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a flowchart diagram illustrating the operation of the air mattress according to the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a bed section to which the air mattress according to the embodiment is combined. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating electric furniture in which the air mattress according to the embodiment is used. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the air mattress according to the embodiment. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the air mattress according to the embodiment. FIG. 13 is a flowchart diagram illustrating operations in the air mattress and control device according to the embodiment. FIG. 14 is a flowchart diagram illustrating operations in the air mattress and control device according to the embodiment. FIG. 15 is a flowchart diagram illustrating operations in the air mattress and control device according to the embodiment. FIG. 16 is a flowchart diagram illustrating operations in the air mattress and control device according to the embodiment. FIG. 17 is a flowchart diagram illustrating operations in the air mattress and control device according to the embodiment. FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating operations in the air mattress and control device according to the embodiment.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
The drawings are schematic or conceptual, and the relationship between the thickness and width of each part, the size ratio between parts, etc. are not necessarily the same as the reality. Even when the same part is shown, the dimensions and ratios may be shown differently depending on the drawing.
In the specification of this application and each figure, the same elements as those described above with respect to the existing figures are given the same reference numerals, and detailed explanations are omitted as appropriate.

(First embodiment)
FIGS. 1(a) to 1(d) are schematic diagrams illustrating an air mattress and a control device according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 1(a) is a perspective view illustrating a plurality of elements included in an air mattress 110 according to an embodiment. In FIG. 1(a), multiple elements are drawn apart from each other to make the diagram easier to read. FIG. 1(b) is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the air mattress 110. FIG. 1(c) is a plan view illustrating the reception section 60 of the air mattress 110. FIG. 1(d) is a functional block diagram regarding the air mattress 110.

As shown in FIG. 1(a), the air mattress 110 according to the embodiment includes a plurality of air cells 11. As shown in FIG. 1(d), air mattress 110 includes a control device 70. As shown in FIG. In one example, control device 70 includes a control section 72 .

As shown in FIG. 1(a), a plurality of air cells 11 are included in the air cell section 10. The plurality of air cells 11 are, for example, cylindrical.

The plurality of air cells 11 are arranged along the first direction. The first direction is the X-axis direction. One direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction is defined as the Z-axis direction. The direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction is the Y-axis direction.

The first direction corresponds to, for example, the direction from the head to the feet when the user sleeps on the air mattress 110. The Y-axis direction corresponds to the left-right direction. The Z-axis direction corresponds to the direction from the bottom surface to the top surface of the air mattress 110.

As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, in this example, an upper cushion portion 40 is provided above the air cell portion 10 (above the air cell 11). The air cell section 10 is provided between the first side edge section 21 and the second side edge section 22 in the Y-axis direction. The upper cushion portion 40, the first side edge portion 21, and the second side edge portion 22 include, for example, a polymer foam. Examples of the polymer foam include urethane foam. The polymeric foam includes a plurality of pores.

As shown in FIG. 1(a), in the Z-axis direction (vertical direction), the air cell section 10, the upper cushion section 40, the first side edge section 21, and the second side edge are arranged between the top cover 45U and the bottom cover 45L. A section 22 is provided. In one example, top cover 45U and bottom cover 45L include a material such as polyester. These covers are connected by a fastener 45Uf of the top cover 45U and a fastener 45Lf of the bottom cover 45L.

As shown in FIG. 1(a), the air mattress 110 further includes a pump section 31. The pump section 31 is connected to each of the plurality of air cells 11 via a tube 11p. The pump section 31 supplies and exhausts the plurality of air cells 11 .

In the example shown in FIG. 1(a), a control section 72 is provided in the housing of the pump section 31. The control unit 72 may include, for example, a processor. The control device 70 (or the control unit 72) may be provided at a location other than the housing. As described later, the control device 70 may be of a smartphone type (for example, a mobile terminal type).

As shown in FIG. 1(d), the control section 72 is connected to the pump section 31. For the connection (for example, communication) between the control unit 72 and the pump unit 31, any method including at least one of wired and wireless methods can be applied. The control section 72 controls the pump section 31 . The internal pressure of the plurality of air cells 11 is controlled by the operation of the pump section 31.

In embodiments, "internal pressure" corresponds to a difference from atmospheric pressure. For example, "internal pressure" corresponds to "gauge pressure".

As shown in FIG. 1(d), for example, a pressure sensor 31s may be provided. For example, the pressure sensor 31s can detect the internal pressure of the plurality of air cells 11. In one example, the internal pressure of each of the plurality of air cells 11 can be detected by detecting the internal pressure of the tube 11p connected to each of the plurality of air cells 11.

As shown in FIG. 1(d), the signal SS detected by the pressure sensor 31s is supplied to the control unit 72. For example, the control unit 72 may control the internal pressure to a desired state based on the detected internal pressure. The fluctuation ΔS of the signal SS may be supplied to the control section 72. The fluctuation ΔS may include at least one of a change in the magnitude of the signal SS and a temporal change in the signal SS. For example, when the change in the signal SS per unit time is large, the variation ΔS is large.

As shown in FIGS. 1(a) and 1(d), the air mattress 110 may further include a reception section 60. The reception unit 60 receives input from the user. The reception unit 60 is, for example, an operation switch (for example, a remote controller). The control unit 72 controls the internal pressure of the plurality of air cells 11 according to the input received by the reception unit 60. The reception unit 60 is connected to the control unit 72 (or the pump unit 31) by an arbitrary method such as at least one of wired and wireless. In this example, the reception section 60 is connected to the control section 72 (or the pump section 31) by a cable 68.

As shown in FIG. 1C, for example, the reception section 60 is provided with various buttons (display input sections 63a, 63b, 64a to 64f, etc.). For example, in the "normal mode", the internal pressure of each of the plurality of air cells 11 is controlled by the user operating these buttons.

In one example, the internal pressures of all of the plurality of air cells 11 are reduced by the user operating the display input section 63a. When the user operates the display input section 63b, the internal pressures of all the air cells 11 increase.

For example, the user presses one of the display input sections 64a to 64f (eg, a button). As a result, the air cell blocks ("A" to "F") corresponding to the display input sections 64a to 64f, respectively, are selected. In this state, when the user presses the display input section 63a or the display input section 63b, the internal pressure of the selected air cell block decreases or increases.

As shown in FIG. 1(c), the reception section 60 may be provided with a display section 63D. A value corresponding to the internal pressure may be displayed on the display section 63D.

As shown in FIG. 1(d), a storage section 78 may be provided. The storage unit 78 may store the internal pressure desired by the user. The control unit 72 may control the internal pressure of the plurality of air cells 11 based on data stored in the storage unit 78. The data may include changes in internal pressure over time. The control unit 72 may control the internal pressure of each of the plurality of air cells 11 (the plurality of blocks) so as to change over time.

As shown in FIG. 1C, the reception section 60 may be provided with an input reception section 65. The input receiving unit 65 is, for example, an operation button. When the user operates the input reception unit 65, the air mattress 110 may shift to a "sleep mode" to be described later.

The control device 70 (or the control unit 72) may be provided with an input function. In this case, the air mattress 110 may be shifted to the "sleep mode" by the user operating the control device 70 (or the control unit 72).

For example, air mattress 110 may have a "first mode" and a "second mode." The "first mode" corresponds to the above-mentioned "normal mode" or "manual mode". In the "first mode", for example, when the user operates the reception unit 60, the internal pressure of the air cell 11 is controlled to a state according to the operation.

On the other hand, in the "second mode", the internal pressure of the air cell 11 is controlled without any operation under the control of the control device 70 (or the control unit 72). The "second mode" is, for example, the "automatic mode." The "second mode" may be, for example, a "sleep mode".

An example of the "second mode" will be described below. “Second mode” is one example of the operation mode of the control unit 72. The operation of the control unit 72 described below may be performed by the control device 70. Communication with the control unit 72 (exchanging data, etc.) described below may be applied to communication with the control device 70 (exchanging data, etc.).

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the air mattress and control device according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 2, the "second mode" starts in the control unit 72 (step S10). For example, the "second mode" starts when the control unit 72 receives an input or when a predetermined time comes.

In one example, the input reception unit 65 of the reception unit 60 may accept the input, and “information that the reception unit 60 has accepted the input” may be supplied to the control unit 72. This information becomes input to the control section 72. In another example, the control unit 72 has an input function, and the user operates the control unit 72. This operation becomes an input to the control device 70 (or control unit 72).

As shown in FIG. 2, the "second mode" includes a first operation (step S11) and a second operation (step S12). In the first operation, the control unit 72 sets the internal pressure of the plurality of air cells 11 to a high state. In the second operation, the control unit 72 lowers the internal pressure of the plurality of air cells 11.

In this way, in the first operation, when the control section 72 receives an input or when a predetermined time comes, the control section 72 adjusts the internal pressure of at least one of the plurality of air cells 11 to the first value. (step S11).

After the first operation, a second operation is performed. In the second operation, the control unit 72 sets the internal pressure of at least one of the plurality of air cells 11 to a second value. The second value is lower than the first value.

After that, the control unit 72 determines whether the first condition is satisfied (step S13). If the first condition is not met, the process returns to step S11. If the first condition is met, the process ends.

In step S13, the first conditions are that the elapsed time t1 is equal to or greater than a predetermined time tc, that the number of repetitions Nm is equal to or greater than a predetermined number Nc, and that the fluctuation ΔS of the obtained signal SS is predetermined. This includes at least one of the following:

The signal SS may include information regarding the state of the internal pressure of at least one of the plurality of air cells 11. For example, a signal SS regarding the internal pressure of the plurality of air cells 11 is detected by the pressure sensor 31s (see FIG. 1(d)). The signal SS or the variation ΔS of the signal SS may be supplied to the control unit 72.

For example, the internal pressure of the air cell 11 changes depending on the movement of the user. When the variation ΔS of the signal SS is small, for example, the user's body movement is small. For example, when the body movement becomes large, the repetition of the first and second movements ends. For example, when the user leaves the air mattress 110, the signal SS changes significantly. By detecting the variation ΔS in the signal SS, it is possible to detect when the user leaves the bed. For example, when leaving the bed is detected, the repetition of the first motion and the second motion may be terminated.

For example, the control unit 72 repeats the first operation and the second operation until such a first condition is satisfied.

In the first operation, the internal pressure is high. By performing such a first motion, for example, a stretching effect can be obtained. In the second operation, the internal pressure is low. By performing such a second motion, a relaxing effect can be obtained. For example, falling asleep becomes easier. For example, the quality of your sleep will improve. For example, lower back pain is alleviated. For example, apnea syndrome improves.

An example of the first operation will be described below.
FIGS. 3(a) to 3(g) are schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of the air mattress and control device according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 3(a), the air cell section 10 (a plurality of air cells 11) may be divided into a plurality of blocks and controlled. In this example, the plurality of air cells 11 are divided into a head block 11A, a shoulder block 11B, a waist block 11C, a buttock block 11D, an upper leg block 11E, and a lower leg block 11F. The number of blocks is any integer greater than or equal to 2.

When the user 81 lies down on the plurality of air cells 11, the head block 11A, the shoulder block 11B, the waist block 11C, the buttocks block 11D, the upper leg block 11E, and the lower leg block 11F are configured to allow the user 81 to They correspond to the head, shoulders, waist, buttocks, upper legs, and lower legs, respectively.

In this example, each of the multiple blocks includes multiple air cells 11. The number of air cells 11 included in one of the plurality of blocks may be one.

The control unit 72 may be able to independently control the internal pressure of a part (one block) of the plurality of air cells 11 and the internal pressure of another part (another block) of the plurality of air cells 11.

For example, the control unit 72 can independently control the internal pressure of each of the head block 11A, shoulder block 11B, waist block 11C, buttock block 11D, upper leg block 11E, and lower leg block 11F.

As already explained, for example, display input sections 64a to 64f corresponding to "A", "B", "C", "D", "E", and "F" are provided on the operation surface of the reception section 60. may be provided (see FIG. 1(c)). "A", "B", "C", "D", "E" and "F" are the head block 11A, shoulder block 11B, waist block 11C, buttock block 11D, upper leg block 11E, and lower leg block. Each corresponds to 11F.

In FIGS. 3(a) to 3(g), the hatching density of the shapes of the plurality of air cells 11 corresponds to the level of internal pressure. When the hatching of a figure is dark, the internal pressure is high. When the hatching of a figure is thin, the internal pressure is low.

As shown in FIG. 3(a), in the initial state, the internal pressure of each of the head block 11A, shoulder block 11B, buttock block 11D, and lower leg block 11F is moderate. In the initial state, the internal pressures of the lower back block 11C and upper leg block 11E are low. FIG. 3(a) corresponds to the state before step S10 (see FIG. 2). In the initial state, the internal pressure of each of the head block 11A, shoulder block 11B, buttock block 11D, and lower leg block 11F is, for example, 4 kPa. In the initial state, the internal pressure of each of the lower back block 11C and upper leg block 11E is, for example, 3 kPa.

As shown in FIG. 3(b), the control unit 72 increases the internal pressure of the head block 11A. For example, the control unit 72 sets the internal pressure of the head block 11A to about 8 kPa, for example.

After this, in this example, as shown in FIG. 3(c), the control unit 72 makes the internal pressure of the shoulder block 11B higher than the initial state. For example, the control unit 72 sets the internal pressure of the shoulder block 11B to, for example, about 8 kPa.

Thereafter, in this example, as shown in FIG. 3(d), the control unit 72 makes the internal pressure of the waist block 11C higher than the initial state. For example, the control unit 72 sets the internal pressure of the waist block 11C to, for example, about 7 kPa.

After that, in this example, as shown in FIG. 3(e), the control unit 72 makes the internal pressure of the buttock block 11D higher than the initial state. For example, the control unit 72 sets the internal pressure of the buttock block 11D to, for example, about 8 kPa.

After that, in this example, as shown in FIG. 3(f), the control unit 72 makes the internal pressure of the upper leg block 11E higher than the initial state. For example, the control unit 72 sets the internal pressure of the upper leg block 11E to, for example, about 7 kPa.

After this, in this example, as shown in FIG. 3(g), the control unit 72 makes the internal pressure of the lower leg block 11F higher than the initial state. For example, the control unit 72 sets the internal pressure of the lower leg block 11F to about 8 kPa, for example.

The above operation corresponds to the first operation, for example. In this way, in this example, the internal pressures of the head block 11A, shoulder block 11B, waist block 11C, buttock block 11D, upper leg block 11E, and lower leg block 11F are controlled to be higher than the initial state in this order. be done.

In the second operation, for example, the internal pressure in the initial state is returned to the head block 11A, shoulder block 11B, waist block 11C, buttock block 11D, upper leg block 11E, and lower leg block 11F in this order.

For example, in the first operation, the internal pressure of at least one of the head block 11A and the shoulder block 11B may increase. After that, in the second operation, the internal pressure of at least one of the head block 11A and the shoulder block 11B may decrease.

Thus, in the embodiment, the control unit 72 controls the internal pressure of at least one of the plurality of air cells 11 (for example, the air cell 11 included in at least one of the head block 11A and the shoulder block 11B) in the first operation. Set to 1 value. In one example, the first value is, for example, 8 kPa. In a second operation performed after such a first operation, the control unit 72 sets the internal pressure of at least one of the plurality of air cells 11 to a second value lower than the first value.

For example, the plurality of air cells 11 may include a first air cell and a second air cell. The first air cell is, for example, the head block 11A. The second air cell is, for example, the waist block 11C.

In the first operation, the control unit 72 sets the first air cell internal pressure of the first air cell (head block 11A) to a first value, and then sets the second air cell internal pressure of the second air cell (waist block 11C) to a third value. .

In the second operation, the control section sets the first air cell internal pressure to a second value lower than the first value, and then sets the second air cell internal pressure to a fourth value lower than the third value.

The third value may be the same as or different from the first value. The fourth value may be the same as or different from the second value.

The plurality of air cells 11 may further include a third air cell. In this case, the third air cell is, for example, the shoulder block 11B. The third air cell is between the first air cell and the second air cell.

In the first operation, the control unit 72 controls a third value between setting the first air cell internal pressure of the first air cell to the first value and setting the second air cell internal pressure of the second air cell to the third value. The third air cell internal pressure of the air cell may be set to a fifth value.

In this case, in the second operation, the control section sets the third air cell internal pressure to the fifth value between setting the first air cell internal pressure to the second value and setting the second air cell internal pressure to the fourth value. The sixth value may be set lower than .

The fifth value may be the same as or different from the first value. The sixth value may be the same as or different from the second value.

In this way, in the first operation, the control unit 72 may sequentially control the internal pressures of the plurality of air cell blocks including the plurality of air cells 11. In the second operation, the control unit 72 may sequentially control the internal pressures of the plurality of air cell blocks.

Regarding the above first condition, the comparison between the elapsed time t1 and the time tc (step S13 in FIG. 2) is performed by the control unit 72, for example. The comparison between the number of repetitions Nm and the predetermined number of times Nc (step S13 in FIG. 2) is performed by the control unit 72, for example. The comparison between the fluctuation ΔS of the signal SS and the threshold value Sc (step S13 in FIG. 2) is performed by the control unit 72, for example.

In the above example, the signal SS is obtained from the pressure sensor 31s. The pressure sensor 31s is provided in an air path between at least one of the plurality of air cells 11 and a pump section 31 that supplies and exhausts air from at least one of the plurality of air cells 11. The air path includes, for example, a tube 11p.

In the first embodiment, information regarding changes in body movement may be obtained from changes in the internal pressure of the plurality of air cells 11. For example, the sleeping state of the user 81 can be estimated from changes in internal pressure. The sleeping state may include a state in which the user 81 leaves the bed.

In an embodiment, for example, the internal pressure of the air cell corresponding to the head and shoulders is set to about 8 kPa (first operation), and then set to about 1 kPa (second operation). Such a first action and a second action may correspond to a "sleep mode", for example.

Thereafter, the control unit 72 may further perform an operation (for example, a third operation) of increasing the internal pressure of the plurality of air cells 11, based on information regarding time or body movement changes, for example. This makes it easier for the user 81 to turn over.

Furthermore, an operation (for example, a fourth operation) of increasing the internal pressure of the plurality of air cells 11 may be further performed based on information regarding time or changes in body movement. The fourth action corresponds to, for example, the action when waking up. In the fourth action, the user 81 is likely to wake up easily.

(Second embodiment)
In the second embodiment, the signal is obtained with another sensor 62 (see FIG. 1(d)). Another sensor 62 detects a value corresponding to the movement of the user 81 lying on the air cell section 10. A signal SS obtained by the sensor 62 is supplied to the control device 70 or the control section 72. Alternatively, the variation ΔS of the signal SS may be supplied to the control device 70 or the control section 72.

An example of such a sensor 62 will be described below.

FIGS. 4(a) and 4(b) are schematic diagrams illustrating usage states of the air mattress and control device according to the embodiment.
FIG. 4A is a schematic perspective view illustrating the sensor 62 and the arrangement of the sensor 62. FIG. 4(b) is a schematic plan view illustrating the sensor 62. In FIG. 4(a), components are drawn separated from each other to make the diagram easier to read.

As shown in FIG. 4(a), in the electric furniture 340, a bottom 71 is provided on the bed leg portion 74 of the bed portion 70B. An air mattress 110 is provided on the bottom 71. A user 81 lies on the air mattress 110. In this example, sensor 62 is provided, for example, between bottom 71 and air mattress 110. In this example, the sensor 62 is sheet-shaped or plate-shaped.

As shown in FIG. 4(b), the sensor 62 includes a circuit section 62a and a pressure sensor section 62b. The circuit section 62a includes a sensor communication section 62c. The sensor communication unit 62c transmits and receives data with, for example, the control device 70 or the control unit 72 (see FIG. 1(d)). Transmission and reception are performed by any method including at least one of wired and wireless.

The pressure sensor section 62b includes, for example, a sensor device 62d. The pressure sensor section 62b detects a force (or a characteristic corresponding to the force) that the pressure sensor section 62b receives. The force includes, for example, pressure and/or sound waves. The pressure sensor section 62b includes, for example, a microphone.

Force (at least one of pressure and sound waves) by the user 81 is applied to the pressure sensor portion 62b via the air mattress 110. For example, a signal based on the force detected by the pressure sensor section 62b is output from the circuit section 62a. The output signal is supplied to the control device 70, the control section 72, or the like. In the control device 70 or the control unit 72, the state of the user 81 (getting out of bed, sleeping, or awake) is determined based on at least one of the magnitude of the signal (force) and the temporal change in the magnitude of the signal (force). etc.) are estimated. Alternatively, the state of the user 81 (e.g., getting out of bed, sleeping, or awake) may be estimated in the circuit section 62a based on at least one of the force and the temporal change in force detected by the pressure sensor section 62b. good. The state of the user 81 may include getting up, getting ready to get out of bed (for example, sitting on the edge), getting out of bed, falling asleep, sleeping, or waking up.

Further, in at least one of the control device 70, the control section 72, and the circuit section 62a, the user 81 biological signals are detected. The biological signal includes at least one of the user's 81 breathing rate and heart rate. The state of sleep may be estimated based on biological signals. The posture of the user 81 while sleeping may be estimated based on the biosignal.

For example, vibrations depending on the state of the user 81 are applied to the pressure sensor section 62b. The vibrations correspond to the body movements of the user 81, for example. Vibrations are detected at the pressure sensor section 62b. The vibrations may include sound.

For example, a vibration detection means (pressure sensor section 62b) and a processing section (at least a portion of at least one of the circuit section 62a, the control device 70, and the control section 72) are provided. The processing unit includes, for example, a computer. The vibration detection means detects, for example, vibrations of the sleeping person (user 81) on the bedding (bed portion 70B). The processing unit includes, for example, an activity amount calculation means, a sleep determination value calculation means, and a sleep state determination means. These means are functionally separated. The activity amount calculation means calculates the activity amount of the sleeping person for each sampling unit time, for example, based on the vibration detected by the vibration detection means. The sleep judgment value calculation means weights, for example, the amount of activity at a first time (e.g., the current time) and the amount of activity calculated at a second time (e.g., a time before the current time) according to time. The sum of the values multiplied by the corrected correction coefficients is calculated as the sleep judgment value. For example, the sleep state determining means determines that the person is in an awake state when the sleep determination value exceeds a predetermined threshold value, and determines that the person is in a sleep state in other cases.

FIGS. 5(a) to 5(d) are schematic diagrams illustrating an air mattress and a control device according to an embodiment.
FIG. 5(a) is a cross-sectional view of an example of the sensor 62. FIG. 5(b) is a plan view of an example of the sensor 62. FIG. 5(c) is a perspective view illustrating the arrangement of the sensor 62. FIG. 5(d) is a side view illustrating the arrangement of the sensor 62.

As shown in FIG. 5A, in this example, the sensor 62 includes a first plate 62p and a second plate 62q. The second plate 62q faces the first plate 62p. These plates may be in sheet form.

The second plate body 62q includes a support protrusion 62s. The support protrusion 62s faces the outer edge of the first plate 62p. The first plate body 62p includes an inner portion inside the outer edge portion. An air container 62r is provided between the inner part and the second plate body 62q. In this example, a groove 62t is provided in the second plate 62q. An air container 62r is provided in the space (divided space) formed by the groove 62t. One end of a signal line 62u is connected to the air container 62r. The other end of the signal line 62u is connected to a detection circuit 62v (detection device).

As shown in FIG. 5(b), the support protrusion 62s faces a part of the outer edge of the first plate body 62p. In this example, the support protrusions 62s are provided at four corners of the first plate 62p. The sensor 62 is sheet-shaped or plate-shaped.

As shown in FIG. 5(c), the sensor 62 described above is placed on the bottom 71. As shown in FIG. 5(d), the sensor 62 is placed on the bottom 71, and the air mattress 110 is placed on top of it. A user 81 lies on the air mattress 110.

For example, a force corresponding to the movement of the user's 81 body is applied to the air container 62r. This force includes, for example, vibration. The force (or the characteristic corresponding to the force) applied to the air container 62r is detected by the detection circuit 62v. For example, a pressure detector is provided in the air container 62r, and a signal (detection result) obtained by the pressure detector is supplied to the detection circuit 62v. For example, a microphone is provided in the air container 62r, and a signal (detection result) obtained by the microphone is supplied to the detection circuit 62v. For example, the output (signal) of the detection circuit 62v may be supplied to the control device 70 (or the control section 72). The detection circuit 62v, the control device 70, or the control unit 72 may estimate the state of the user 81 (getting out of bed, sleeping, awake, etc.). Alternatively, in the detection circuit 62v, the control device 70, or the control unit 72, the state of the user 81 (getting out of bed, sleeping, awake, etc.) is determined based on at least one of the detected force and the temporal change in the force. It may be estimated. The state of the user 81 may include sitting up, sitting up (for example, ready to get out of bed), getting out of bed, falling asleep, sleeping, or waking up.

The sensor 62 is, for example, a biological information collecting device. In the sensor 62, the first plate 62p is placed, for example, on the body side of the user 81. The second plate body 62q is provided, for example, on the support side. A deformable air container 62r for detecting air pressure is provided between the center portions of the first plate 62p and the second plate 62q. A groove 62t into which the air container 62r is mounted is provided in the center of the second plate 62q. The support protrusion 62s protrudes from the second plate 62q toward the first plate 62p. The support protrusions 62s support the four corners around the first plate body 62p. The support protrusion 62s supports, for example, the first plate body 62p in a horizontal state (normal state).

Depending on the signal SS (or ΔS of the signal SS) obtained by such a sensor 62, the first operation and the second operation described above may be started or ended.

In the second embodiment, the control device 70 (or the control unit 72) may further perform the third operation or the fourth operation described in relation to the first embodiment.

(Third embodiment)
The third embodiment relates to an air mattress. The air mattress 110 includes the control device 70 described in connection with the first and second embodiments and a plurality of air cells 11. According to the third embodiment, a more comfortable air mattress can be provided.

The purpose of a typical air mattress is to reduce the pressure on the user's body. With general air mattresses, it is difficult to improve the comfort for sleeping.

In the embodiment, the user's 81 body can be stretched by making at least a portion of the plurality of air cells 11 hard. After that, at least a portion of the plurality of air cells 11 is softened to sink the body. This produces a relaxing effect. For example, the hardness (internal pressure) of the plurality of air cells 11 is controlled based on a signal SS (and a variation ΔS of the signal SS) obtained from a built-in sensor (pressure sensor 31s) or an external device (for example, sensor 62). The signal SS and the fluctuation ΔS may indicate, for example, the state of the user 81 (for example, falling asleep or getting out of bed). The hardness (internal pressure) of the plurality of air cells 11 is at least one selected from the group consisting of temperature, humidity, time, brightness, noise, odor, vibration, weight, blood flow, heartbeat, respiration, body temperature, and sinking condition. It may be controlled based on the detection result of the value related to.

The control device 70 may include, for example, a smartphone. The hardness (internal pressure) of the plurality of air cells 11 may be controlled by application software of the control device 70 (for example, a smartphone). The hardness (internal pressure) of the plurality of air cells 11 may be controlled according to big data on the cloud.

As shown in FIG. 1(d), the control device 70 may include, for example, a wireless communication terminal 73. The wireless communication terminal 73 may be, for example, a smartphone. The wireless communication terminal 73 may include an input/output screen 73d. The input/output screen 73d includes, for example, a "touch panel". For example, when the user 81 or the like operates the input/output screen 73d, the air mattress 110 shifts to the "sleep mode". The input/output screen 73d functions, for example, as an "input reception section."

The wireless communication terminal 73 may be provided with a communication section 73c. The communication unit 73c may communicate with the pump unit 31 wirelessly, for example. For example, the communication unit 73c may communicate wirelessly with the pressure sensor 31s. The communication unit 73c may wirelessly communicate with the sensor communication unit 62c of the sensor 62 (a sensor that detects a value according to the movement of the user 81 lying on the air cell unit 10).

In one example, the communication unit 73c communicates with the sensor communication unit 62c wirelessly, and the sensor communication unit 62c communicates with the pump unit 31. The pump section 31 may be controlled based on the output from the communication section 73c via the sensor communication section 62c.

The control section 72 may include a communication section 72c. The communication unit 73c may be able to perform wired or wireless communication with the communication unit 72c.

In the embodiment, the pump section 31 may include a DC pump 31d (see FIG. 1(d)). For example, PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control may be performed by using the DC pump 31d. An example of PWM control will be described below.

FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b) are schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of the air mattress according to the embodiment.
The horizontal axis of these figures is time tm. The vertical axis exemplifies the strength SigC of the PWM control signal. FIG. 6A corresponds to the case where the duty ratio Dt is 65%. FIG. 6(b) corresponds to the case where the duty ratio Dt is 35%. The PWM control signal is supplied to the DC pump 31d from, for example, the control unit 72 or a drive circuit controlled by the control unit 72. The amount of air supply and exhaust from the air cell 11 by the DC pump 31d can be controlled by the ratio of the period in which the intensity SigC of the PWM control signal is high and the period in which the intensity SigC is low.

FIG. 7 is a graph diagram illustrating the operation of the air mattress according to the embodiment.
The horizontal axis in FIG. 7 is the duty ratio Dt (%). The vertical axis is the supply/exhaust pressure Pr (kPa). As shown in FIG. 7, when the duty ratio Dt is high, the supply/exhaust pressure Pr becomes high. By controlling the duty ratio Dt in PWM control, the supply and displacement amount of the pump can be controlled.

In embodiments, the pump section 31 may include an AC pump. The internal pressure of the air cell 11 can be controlled by operating the AC pump. In this case, for example, the output of the AC pump (for example, the supply/exhaust pressure Pr) is controlled by the voltage applied to the AC pump. In an AC pump, the applied voltage can be switched by phase control. In phase control, it may be difficult to obtain desired operation due to the influence of frequency variations.

By using PWM control using a DC pump, for example, the output can be controlled with high precision according to the required supply and exhaust pressure without being substantially affected by fluctuations in the AC power supply (including variations in frequency, etc.) . For example, output can be minimized. PWM control using a DC pump can generate less noise than, for example, when using an AC pump. For example, the noise generated can be minimized. Thereby, for example, better sleeping comfort can be provided.

An example of the operation of the air mattress 110 will be described below.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart diagram illustrating the operation of the air mattress according to the embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 8, power is turned on (step S101). Thereby, for example, the process shifts to the initialization mode (step S102). In the initialization mode, for example, the internal pressure (pressure Pr) of the air cell 11 is set to a predetermined value (eg, 5 kPa, etc.). In the initialization mode, the user 81 rides on the air cell section 10. For example, in this state, the internal pressure (pressure Pr) is set to a predetermined value.

The process shifts to normal mode (step S103). For example, the sleep mode may be shifted to sleep mode (step S131) based on the state of the user 81 or based on acceptance of an operation by the reception unit 60. In the sleep mode (step S131), the mode is changed to the normal mode (step S103) based on the acceptance of the "end" operation, based on the state of the user 81, or based on the acceptance of the operation by the reception unit 60. return. The sleep onset mode (step S131) corresponds to the above-mentioned "second mode", for example.

In the normal mode, for example, a sensor check is performed (step S104). The internal pressure is confirmed (detected) (step S105). Further, it is determined whether the state set (stored) at this time is "out of bed" or "in bed" (step S106). The "set (stored) state" is, for example, the state at the end of the previous operation (for example, in step S111, which will be described later). For example, the initially set (memorized) state of the air mattress 110 may be, for example, "lying down". In step S106, if the status is "get out of bed", the process advances to step S121, which will be described later. If the state is "lying down", the process advances to step S107.

In step S107, it is determined whether the internal pressure has decreased significantly. If it is determined that the internal pressure has significantly decreased, it is assumed that the internal pressure has "left the bed", and the internal pressure at that time is stored as the "leave the bed internal pressure" (step S109). After that, for example, the computer waits for a predetermined time (for example, 12 hours) (step S111).

If it is determined in step S107 that the internal pressure has not decreased significantly, it is determined whether the internal pressure has decreased (step S108). If it is determined that the internal pressure has not decreased, the process advances to step S111.

If it is determined in step S108 that the internal pressure has decreased, air is supplied to the set internal pressure (step S110). After this, the process advances to step S111.

If it is determined in step S106 that the patient should "get out of bed," it is determined in step S121 whether the internal pressure has decreased. If it is determined that the internal pressure has not decreased, it is determined whether the internal pressure has increased (step S122). If it is determined that the internal pressure has not increased, the process advances to step S111. If it is determined that the internal pressure has increased, it is assumed that the patient is in bed and the "internal pressure for getting out of bed" is cleared (step S124, for example, the memory is initialized). After this, the process advances to step S111.

If it is determined in step S121 that the internal pressure has decreased, air is supplied to the "bed leaving internal pressure" (step S123). After this, the process advances to step S111.

Such an operation is performed by, for example, the control device 70 (or the control unit 72).

FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a bed section to which the air mattress according to the embodiment is combined.
The air mattress 110 according to the embodiment may be used in combination with the bed section 70B shown in FIG. 9 (see FIG. 4(a)). As shown in FIG. 9, the bed portion 70B includes a plurality of bottoms 71, for example. The plurality of bottoms include, for example, a back section, a hip section, an upper leg section, and a lower leg section. The angle between these bottoms can be changed, for example, by actuators (eg, back actuator 71A and knee actuator 71B, etc.). The bed section 70B is, for example, an "active smart bed."

FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating electric furniture in which the air mattress according to the embodiment is used.
As shown in FIG. 10, electric furniture 310 includes an air mattress 110 and a bed section 70B. In this example, a sensor 62 (see FIGS. 4(a) and 5(c), etc.) and a wireless communication terminal 73 (for example, a smartphone) are provided. The wireless communication terminal 73 may include, for example, any device on which APP (Application Software) operates.

In this example, electric furniture 310 (or bed section 70B) includes a control circuit 75 (control box). The control circuit 75 controls the actuator of the bed section 70B. Control circuit 75 may be able to communicate with air mattress 110. In this example, control circuit 75 is connected to air mattress 110 via cable 110c. This connection may be made wirelessly. The control circuit 75 may be able to communicate with the sensor 62. In this example, control circuit 75 is connected to sensor 62 via cable 62ca. This connection may be made wirelessly.

The control circuit 75 may be connected to, for example, a switch 75A. The switch 75A is, for example, a remote controller (for example, a "hand switch"). Power is supplied to the control circuit 75 via a power cable 75c. For example, power may be supplied from the control circuit 75 to the actuator. The electric furniture 310 is, for example, an "active smart bed system."

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the air mattress according to the embodiment.
FIG. 11 illustrates the operation in "sleep mode".

For example, the sleep onset mode is started from a bed posture (sleep onset posture) in which the back of the bed is raised at a relatively small angle (for example, about 10 degrees from the horizontal plane). The sensor 62 (sleep sensor) detects the sleeping state of the user 81 lying on the air mattress 110 (step S201). When the sleep sensor detects the "sleeping" state of the user 81, the back bottom is moved in a direction to reduce the back angle of the bed to bring the bed into a horizontal state (return).

At the timing when the movement of the back bottom changes (the beginning and end of lowering the back bottom), the user 81 is likely to feel acceleration from the back bottom, which may prevent the user from continuing to sleep. For example, the air mattress 110 is controlled by changing the internal pressure of the air cells 11 of the air mattress 110 before and after the movement of the back bottom so that the user 81 does not feel the acceleration of the back bottom. Control is performed by, for example, a control device 70.

For example, in "Start", the control device 70 starts the following control flow according to the user's 81 procedure (pressing the sleep start button) or based on a predetermined start time.

Each bottom of the bed holds a sleeping position. In the sleeping position, for example, the bed back angle is maintained at a small angle of about 10 degrees. The sleep sensor monitors whether the user 81 has fallen asleep. Whether the user 81 has fallen asleep corresponds to, for example, whether the state of the user 81 has changed from "awake" to "sleep."

When the monitor output of the sleep sensor changes from the "wake" state to the "sleep" state, it is determined that the user 81 has transitioned to the sleep state. At this time, the control device 70 starts preparations for starting the lowering operation of the back bottom. For example, in order to reduce the internal pressure of the air cell 11, exhaustion of the air cell 11 is started (step S202). After that, the control device 70 starts rotating the back bottom of the bed so as to lower the back bottom (step S203). This operation reduces the repulsive force of the air cells 11 on the user 81 of the air mattress 110. Then, the repulsive force of the air mattress 110 (air cell 11) applied from the back bottom to the user 81 at the start of the back bottom lowering operation becomes smaller. This prevents the user 81 from falling asleep.

In the back bottom lowering operation, the back bottom lowering operation may be started after the internal pressure of the air cell 11 has been completely lowered. The lowering operation may be started while the internal pressure of the air cell 11 is decreasing (during fluid exhaust).

When the back bottom of the bed is lowered to a horizontal state, the lowering operation of the back bottom is completed (step S203). The user 81 continues to sleep with the bed in a horizontal state. In the lowering operation of the back bottom of the bed, the back bottom may be lowered at a constant speed from the start to the end of the back lowering. The speed change may be controlled to be small at the start and end of lowering the back. The influence of acceleration on the user 81 can be reduced.

It is also possible to operate without rest from the beginning to the end of lowering the back. During back lowering, a lowering operation state and a rest state may be combined and lowered, and back lowering may be performed intermittently.

Exhaust from the air cells 11 of the air mattress 110 may be started before the end of lowering the back. In this case, by continuing to lower the internal pressure of the air cell 11 immediately before the end of lowering the back, it is possible to further reduce the influence of the acceleration of the bottom of the back on the user 81, for example, at the end of lowering the back.

After completing the lowering operation of the back bottom of the bed, the control device 70 starts supplying air to the air cells 11 of the air mattress 110 (step S205). This increases the internal pressure of the air cell 11. This makes it easier for the user 81 lying on the air mattress 110 to turn over with the bottom of the bed in a horizontal state. It can provide a comfortable sleeping environment. Air supply to the air cells 11 of the air mattress 110 may be started before the back bottom lowering operation is completed.

In the sleep mode, after detecting the "sleeping" state of the user 81 and starting lowering the lower back, the user 81 may regain consciousness (awake state) before completing the back lowering operation. . In this case, upon receiving the output of the "awake" state from the sleep sensor, the lowering operation of the back bottom is interrupted. After the interruption, the sleep state of the user 81 is continued to be monitored, and when the output of the sleep sensor is switched to "sleep" again (re-entering sleep), the back lowering operation of the back bottom is resumed. Through such an operation, even if the sleeping state of the user 81 changes to an awake state when the back bottom is lowered, the lowering of the back bottom is interrupted and the user 81 maintains the back raised state at a small angle. person 81 can be induced to fall asleep again.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the air mattress according to the embodiment.
FIG. 12 illustrates the operation in "wake-up mode". "Wake-up mode" is, for example, a mode corresponding to the fourth action.

For example, when the control device 70 detects that the user 81 is in a light sleep, it starts a preliminary operation to reduce the internal pressure of the air cells 11 of the air mattress 110 in preparation for the user 81 getting up. After that, the control device 70 starts raising the bottom of the back of the bed, and completes raising the bottom of the back. Thereafter, the control device 70 increases the internal pressure of the air cells 11 of the air mattress 110 to encourage the user 81 to fully wake up. For example, the control device 70 creates a state in which the user 81 can easily move on the air mattress 110.

When humans suddenly go from deep sleep (sleep state) to an awake state, it is difficult to wake up, and it is difficult for humans to wake up comfortably. On the other hand, when a person transitions from a light sleep state (a transition state (intermediate state) from a sleep state to an "awake" state) to an awake state, they wake up easily and feel refreshed and comfortable when they wake up.

In the wake-up mode, for example, the user 81 is woken up at the timing when the user 81 is in a light sleep, thereby providing the user 81 with a more refreshed and comfortable wake-up (wake-up). In the wake-up mode, the bed and air mattress are controlled as follows.

For example, a sleep sensor detects a transition state (intermediate state) from a "sleeping" state to an "awake" state (step S201). The transition state (intermediate state) is detected by detecting, for example, "the number or frequency of body movements increases" or "the amplitude of body movements increases".

In step S201, when a transition state from the "sleeping" state to the "awake" state is detected, the control device 70 starts exhausting the air cells 11 of the air mattress 110 (step S202). The control device 70 reduces the internal pressure of the air cell 11. This operation makes it possible to enhance the feeling of holding the air mattress 110 to the user 81 (maintain and fix the sleeping position) regardless of the sleeping position of the user 81.

Next, raising the bottom of the bed is started (step S203A). This prompts the user 81 to wake up. In order to promote wakefulness more effectively, the internal pressure of the air cell 11 is increased to increase the resistance (repulsive force) against the user 81. Alternatively, by repeating air supply and exhaust from the air cell 11 little by little, it is possible to impart repulsive vibrations to the user 81.

The back raising operation of the back bottom is completed (step S204B). When the back raising operation is completed, air is supplied to the air cells 11 of the air mattress 110 (S205). As a result, the internal pressure of the air cells 11 of the air mattress 110 increases. Such an operation increases the resistance (repulsive force) of the air cell 11 against the user 81 in addition to promoting wakefulness due to the back-raising operation of the bottom of the back. This promotes complete awakening of the user 81 on the air mattress 110. For example, it is possible to create a state in which the user 81 can easily move on the air mattress 110.

When the user 81 wakes up and leaves the bed (when leaving the bed), the internal pressure of the air cells 11 of the air mattress 110 decreases compared to when the user 81 is in bed. Therefore, by monitoring the internal pressure of the air cells 11 of the air mattress 110, it is possible to easily monitor whether the user 81 leaves or stays in bed.

For example, the sleep sensor can detect whether the user 81 is in bed by detecting body movements, so by monitoring the body movement output of the sleep sensor, it is possible to monitor whether the user 81 is out of bed or in bed.

For example, by monitoring both the internal pressure of the air cells 11 of the air mattress 110 and the body movement output of the sleep sensor, it is possible to accurately detect whether the user 81 leaves or stays in bed.

For example, after it is detected that the user 81 leaves the bed, the back bottom of the bed and the bottom leg of the bed are operated to ensure a space between the bottom and the air mattress 110 placed on the bed. Thereby, for example, a ventilable space can be provided on the lower surface of the air mattress 110. Thereby, for example, the dehumidifying effect of the air mattress 110 can be enhanced, and efficient measures against moisture can be taken.

According to the embodiment, a control device and an air mattress that can provide a more comfortable air mattress can be provided.

Some examples of operations in the "sleep mode" will be described below. The operation of the control device 70 (see FIG. 1(d)) described below may be performed by, for example, the control unit 72 (see FIG. 1(d)).

FIG. 13 is a flowchart diagram illustrating operations in the air mattress and control device according to the embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 13, for example, the sensor 62 (sleep sensor) detects the state of the user 81 lying on the air mattress 110 (step S201). If the state of the user 81 is not sleeping, step S201 is continued. When the state of the user 81 is sleeping, the control device 70 performs a first control operation OP1 (step S202) to lower the internal pressure of the air cell section 10. Internal pressure decreases due to air cell exhaust. In the following example, the internal pressure (initial pressure) before the start of the first control operation OP1 is, for example, 2 kPa.

Step S202 includes, for example, exhausting the air cell section 10 (step S202a) and comparing the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 with a first pressure or less (step S202b). The first pressure is a predetermined value, for example, 1 kPa. If the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 is higher than the first pressure, the process returns to step S202a. When the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 is less than or equal to the first pressure, a second control operation OP2 for changing the angle of the back bottom is performed.

In this example, the second control operation OP2 includes starting to lower the back of the bed bottom (step S203) and stopping lowering the back of the bed bottom (step S204). Thus, in this example, in the second control operation OP2, the control device 70 reduces the angle of the back bottom.

After the second control operation OP2, the control device 70 may further perform a third control operation OP3 to increase the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 (step S205). Due to the air cell supply, the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 increases. For example, the internal pressure may be an initial internal pressure (eg, 2 kPa, etc.). Furthermore, the state of the bed portion 70B (back angle) or the state of the user 81 (sleeping state, etc.) may be checked (step S206).

Thus, in this example, the control device 70 performs the first control operation OP1 to reduce the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 of the air mattress 110 placed on the bed section 70B including the back bottom. After performing at least a portion of the first control operation OP1, a second control operation OP2 for changing the angle of the back bottom is performed. In this example, the angle of the back bottom is decreased in the second control operation OP2.

For example, when step S202a and step S202b are completed, the first control operation OP1 is completed. In this example, the control device 70 starts the second control operation OP2 after the first control operation OP1 is completed. In the embodiment, the second control operation OP2 may be started during the first control operation OP1 (for example, when the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 starts to decrease).

In the embodiment, the control device 70 starts the first control operation OP1 when the variation ΔS of the obtained signal SS becomes equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. For example, when the state of the user 81 is sleeping, the control device 70 starts the first control operation OP1. For example, the speed change may be controlled to be small at the start and end of lowering the back. The influence of acceleration on the user 81 can be reduced.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart diagram illustrating operations in the air mattress and control device according to the embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 14, the first control operation OP1 may include determining whether the current back angle is larger than a predetermined first angle (step S201c). The first angle is, for example, 5 degrees. If the current back angle is larger than the first angle (for example, 5 degrees), air cell exhaust (reduction of the internal pressure of the air cell section 10) is performed (step S202a). Then, the internal pressure is compared with a first pressure (for example, 1 kPa) (step S202b). If the internal pressure is higher than the first pressure, the process returns to step S202a. When the internal pressure is less than or equal to the first pressure, the control device 70 performs a second control operation OP2 to change the angle of the back bottom.

In step S201c, if the current back angle is less than or equal to the first angle, air cell exhaust (reduction of the internal pressure of the air cell section 10) is performed (step S202c). Then, the internal pressure is compared with a second pressure (for example, 0.5 kPa) lower than the first pressure (step S202d). If the internal pressure is higher than the second pressure, the process returns to step S202c. When the internal pressure is equal to or lower than the second pressure, the control unit 70 performs a second control operation OP2 to change the angle of the back bottom.

As described above, in this example, the degree of pressure reduction in the air cell section 10 is changed depending on whether the current back angle is larger than the predetermined first angle. If the current back angle is larger than the first angle (for example, 5 degrees), the internal pressure is lowered to the first pressure (for example, 1 kPa). On the other hand, if the current back angle is less than or equal to the first angle (for example, 5 degrees), the internal pressure is lowered to be less than or equal to the second pressure (for example, 0.5 kPa). When the current back angle is small, the effect of vibration (acceleration or force) accompanying a change in the bottom back angle on the user 81 is greater than when the current back angle is large. When the current back angle is small, by lowering the internal pressure of the air cell section 10, the air cell section 10 becomes softer. Thereby, the influence of vibration (acceleration or force) caused by changing the angle of the back bottom on the user 81 can be reduced.

In this way, if the initial angle of the back bottom before starting the first control operation OP1 is larger than the first angle, the control device 70 lowers the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 to the first pressure or less in the first control operation OP1. (Steps S202a and S202b). When the initial angle of the back bottom is less than or equal to the first angle, the control device 70 may set the internal pressure of the air cell portion 10 to a second pressure lower than the first pressure in the first control operation OP1.

After such a first control operation OP1 (step S202), a second control operation OP2 (step S203 and step S204) of decreasing the angle of the back bottom is performed. In one second control operation OP2, the angle of the back bottom is decreased by a predetermined change width. The width of change is, for example, 1 degree. The range of change may be, for example, 0.5 degrees or more and 2 degrees or less. If the desired back angle is not reached by one second control operation OP2, the first control operation OP1 and the second control operation OP2 may be repeated.

As already explained, the third control operation OP3 may be performed after the second control operation OP2. In the example of FIG. 14, the angle of the back bottom after the second control operation OP2 is compared with a determined first angle (for example, 5 degrees) (step S205a). If the angle of the back bottom after the second control operation OP2 is larger than the first angle, the control device 70 increases the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 (step S205b). Due to the air cell supply, the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 increases. After this, the internal pressure is compared with the third pressure (step S205c). The third pressure is higher than the first pressure (eg, 1 kPa). In one example, the third pressure is, for example, lower than the initial pressure (eg, 2 kPa). The third pressure is, for example, 1.5 kPa. In step S205c, if the internal pressure is lower than the third pressure, the process returns to step S205a. In step S205c, if the internal pressure is equal to or higher than the third pressure, the process proceeds to step S206a, which will be described later.

In step S205a, if the angle of the back bottom after the second control operation OP2 is equal to or less than the first angle, the control device 70 increases the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 (step S205d). After this, the internal pressure is compared with the fourth pressure (step S205e). The fourth pressure is lower than the first pressure (eg, 1 kPa). In one example, the fourth pressure is, for example, higher than the second pressure (eg, 0.5 kPa). The fourth pressure is, for example, 0.7 kPa. In step S205e, if the internal pressure is lower than the fourth pressure, the process returns to step S205d. In step S205e, if the internal pressure is equal to or higher than the fourth pressure, the process proceeds to step S206a, which will be described later.

In this way, the angle of the back bottom after the second control operation OP2 is compared with the first angle (for example, 5 degrees). If the angle is larger than the first predetermined angle, for example, the internal pressure is increased to a third pressure (for example, 1.5 kPa). If the angle is less than or equal to the first predetermined angle, the internal pressure is set to a fourth pressure (0.7 kPa), for example. For example, the degree of air supply to the air cell is changed depending on whether the angle of the back bottom after the second control operation OP2 is larger or smaller than the first angle. Thereby, for example, the time for supplying air to the air cell can be shortened. The third control operation OP3 can be performed efficiently. For example, when the first control operation OP1 and the second control operation OP2 are repeatedly performed, the first control operation OP1 can be efficiently performed.

In this way, when the angle of the back bottom after the second control operation OP2 is larger than the predetermined first angle (for example, 5 degrees), the control device 70 controls the air cell portion in the third control operation OP3. The internal pressure of No. 10 may be set to a third pressure higher than the first pressure (steps S205b and S205c). If the angle of the back bottom after the second control operation OP2 is equal to or less than the first angle, the control device 70 sets the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 to a fourth pressure lower than the first pressure in the third control operation OP3. It's okay.

In step S206a shown in FIG. 14, the angle of the back bottom after the second control operation OP2 (for example, step S205) is compared with a predetermined value (for example, the minimum value). The predetermined value (eg, minimum value) is, for example, 0 degrees. If the angle of the back bottom after the second control operation OP2 is larger than a predetermined value (for example, 0 degrees), the process returns to step S201. If the angle of the back bottom after the second control operation OP2 is a predetermined value, the air cell is supplied with air (step S206b). The internal pressure of the air cell section 10 becomes, for example, an initial pressure (for example, 2 kPa, etc.). The processing before step S206b corresponds to, for example, "sleep mode". After step S206b, the user 81 sleeps on the air mattress 110.

In this way, when the angle of the back bottom after the second control operation OP2 is larger than the predetermined minimum value (for example, 0 degrees), the control device 70 controls the first control operation OP1 and the second control operation OP2. repeat. For example, if the angle of the back bottom after the second control operation OP2 is substantially the minimum value, the pressure in the air cell section 10 is increased (step S206b). For example, the control device 70 sets the pressure in the air cell section 10 to a pressure higher than the first pressure (eg, initial pressure).

FIG. 15 is a flowchart diagram illustrating operations in the air mattress and control device according to the embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 15, in this example, the internal pressure is compared with the first pressure (step S205a) in accordance with the result of the comparison between the back bottom angle and the first angle after the second control operation OP2 S207) is performed. Depending on the result, the third control operation OP3 or the fourth control operation OP4 is performed. Examples of these operations will be described below.

As shown in FIG. 15, in step S205a, if the angle of the back bottom after the second control operation OP2 is larger than the first angle, the control device 70 executes the already described steps S205b and S205c. On the other hand, in step S205a, if the angle of the back bottom after the second control operation OP2 is equal to or less than the first angle, the control device 70 compares the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 with the first pressure (step S207). In step S207, if the internal pressure is equal to or lower than the first pressure, the control device 70 increases the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 (step S205d). After this, the internal pressure is compared with the fourth pressure (step S205e). If the internal pressure is lower than the fourth pressure, the process returns to step S205d. In step S205e, if the internal pressure is equal to or higher than the fourth pressure, the process proceeds to step S206a.

In step S207, if the internal pressure is higher than the first pressure, the control device 70 reduces the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 (step S208a). After this, the internal pressure is compared with the fourth pressure (step S208b). If the internal pressure is higher than the fourth pressure, the process returns to step S208a. In step S208b, if the internal pressure is equal to or lower than the fourth pressure, the process proceeds to step S206a.

As described above, in the embodiment, when the angle of the back bottom after the second control operation OP2 is equal to or less than the first angle, and the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 after the second control operation OP2 is equal to or less than the first pressure (step If "Yes" in S207), in the third control operation OP3, the control device 70 makes the internal pressure equal to or higher than the fourth pressure, which is lower than the first pressure. For example, the control device 70 sets the internal pressure to the fourth pressure in the third control operation OP3.

If the angle of the back bottom after the second control operation OP2 is less than or equal to the first angle and the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 after the second control operation OP2 is higher than the first pressure (if "No" in step S207) ), the control device 70 further executes a fourth control operation OP4 that lowers the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 (step S208a). In the fourth control operation OP4, the control device 70 lowers the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 to a fourth pressure lower than the first pressure, for example. For example, the control device 70 exhausts the air cell to bring the internal pressure to the fourth pressure.

Thereby, for example, the time for supplying and exhausting the air cell section 10 can be shortened. For example, when the first control operation OP1 and the second control operation OP2 are repeatedly performed, the first control operation OP1 can be efficiently performed.

In the process illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 15 above, when the air cell section 10 includes a plurality of air cells 11, the internal pressures of the plurality of air cells 11 may be changed in order. For example, the air cell section 10 may include a first air cell and a second air cell. The first air cell is, for example, the head block 11A. The second air cell is, for example, the waist block 11C. For example, when the air cell section 10 includes a first air cell, a second air cell, and a third air cell, for example, the first air cell is the head block 11A, the second air cell is the shoulder block 11B, and the third air cell is the waist block. Block 11C may also be used. In this case, for example, the internal pressures of each of the first to third air cells may be changed in turn. Such an example will be explained below.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart diagram illustrating operations in the air mattress and control device according to the embodiment.
FIG. 16 shows, for example, an example of the decrease in internal pressure in the first control operation OP1 and the fourth control operation OP4. FIG. 16 illustrates, for example, the processing performed in steps S202a, 202c, and S208a. In the following example, the first to third air cells are a head block 11A, a shoulder block 11B, and a waist block 11C, respectively.

As shown in FIG. 16, the first air cell is evacuated (step S301). The internal pressure of the first air cell is compared with the pressure α1 (step S301a). If the internal pressure of the first air cell is higher than the pressure α1, the process returns to step S301.

In step S301a, when the internal pressure of the first air cell is equal to or lower than the pressure α1, the second air cell is evacuated (step S302). The internal pressure of the second air cell is compared with the pressure α1 (step S302a). If the internal pressure of the second air cell is higher than pressure α1, the process returns to step S302.

In step S302a, if the internal pressure of the second air cell is less than or equal to pressure α1, the third air cell is evacuated (step S303). The internal pressure of the third air cell is compared with the pressure α1 (step S303a). If the internal pressure of the third air cell is higher than the pressure α1, the process returns to step S303.

In step S303a, when the internal pressure of the third air cell is equal to or lower than the pressure α1, for example, the internal pressure of all the air cells is compared with the target internal pressure (step S305). For example, if the internal pressures of all the air cells are equal to or lower than the target internal pressure, the process proceeds to the next step. The next process is, for example, the second control operation OP2.

For example, if the internal pressures of all the air cells are not equal to or lower than the target internal pressure, the pressure α1 is set to a value lower than the pre-update pressure α1 (for example, α1-β1), and then the process returns to step S301. In this example, for example, the target internal pressure is the first pressure. At this time, the pressure α1 is higher than the first pressure. In one example, pressure α1 is 1.5 kPa and pressure β1 is 0.5 kPa. For example, the pressure is reduced by 0.5 kPa. By gradually lowering the internal pressure, the vibration (acceleration or force) applied from the air cell section 10 to the user 81 can be reduced. By gradually lowering the internal pressure, for example, the internal pressure can be lowered while the pressure difference between the first to third air cells is small. Thereby, for example, changes in the posture of the user 81 can be reduced. The pressure α1 is, for example, a relatively low pressure, and is an internal pressure that can reduce the vibration (acceleration or force) applied to the user 81. By gradually reducing the internal pressure by pressure β1 from this pressure α1, the influence of vibration (acceleration or force) can be further reduced. The value of pressure α1 and the value of pressure β1 can be changed in various ways.

In this way, the first control operation OP1 may include repeating lowering the internal pressure of the second air cell after lowering the internal pressure of the first air cell. For example, the fourth control operation OP4 may include repeating lowering the internal pressure of the second air cell after lowering the internal pressure of the first air cell.

In this way, the control device 70 may sequentially exhaust the plurality of air cells in the first control operation OP1 or the fourth control operation OP4. By gradually exhausting the air, for example, the generated noise can be reduced. For example, multiple air cells may be evacuated in any desired order. In this case, exhaust can be performed according to the user's 81 preference.

On the other hand, a plurality of air cells may be evacuated simultaneously. In this case, for example, the posture of the user 81 can be kept substantially constant while the plurality of air cells are being evacuated. For example, it is easier for the user 81 to maintain a sleeping position.

In embodiments, the pressure α1 related to the second air cell may be the same or different from the pressure α1 related to the first air cell. The pressure α1 regarding the third air cell may be the same as or different from the pressure α1 regarding the first air cell.

When the air cell section 10 includes a plurality of air cells 11, the internal pressure of the plurality of air cells 11 may be increased in order.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart diagram illustrating operations in the air mattress and control device according to the embodiment.
FIG. 17 shows, for example, an example of an increase in internal pressure in the third control operation OP3. FIG. 17 illustrates, for example, the processing performed in steps S205b and S205d. In the following example, the first to third air cells are a head block 11A, a shoulder block 11B, and a waist block 11C, respectively.

As shown in FIG. 17, air is supplied to the first air cell (step S311). The internal pressure of the first air cell is compared with pressure γ1 (step S311a). If the internal pressure of the first air cell is lower than pressure γ1, the process returns to step S311.

In step S311a, when the internal pressure of the first air cell is equal to or higher than pressure γ1, air is supplied to the second air cell (step S312). The internal pressure of the second air cell is compared with pressure γ1 (step S312a). If the internal pressure of the second air cell is lower than pressure γ1, the process returns to step S312.

In step S312a, when the internal pressure of the second air cell is equal to or higher than pressure γ1, air is supplied to the third air cell (step S313). The internal pressure of the third air cell is compared with pressure γ1 (step S313a). If the internal pressure of the third air cell is lower than pressure γ1, the process returns to step S313.

In step S313a, if the internal pressure of the third air cell is equal to or lower than pressure γ1, for example, the internal pressures of all the air cells are compared with the target internal pressure (step S315). For example, if the internal pressures of all the air cells are equal to or higher than the target internal pressure, the process proceeds to the next step. The next process is, for example, step S206a.

For example, if the internal pressures of all the air cells are not equal to or higher than the target internal pressure, the pressure γ1 is set to a value higher than the pressure γ1 before updating (for example, γ1+δ1), and then the process returns to step S311. In one example, pressure γ1 is 1.5 kPa and pressure δ1 is 0.5 kPa. For example, the pressure is increased by 0.5 kPa. In this example, the target internal pressure is, for example, the third pressure or the fourth pressure. By gradually increasing the internal pressure, changes in vibration (acceleration or force) applied to the user 81 from the air cell section 10 can be reduced. By gradually increasing the internal pressure, for example, the internal pressure can be increased while the pressure difference between the first to third air cells is small. Thereby, for example, changes in the posture of the user 81 can be reduced. The value of pressure γ1 and the value of pressure δ1 can be changed in various ways.

In this embodiment, in the third control operation OP3, the control device 70 may include repeating increasing the internal pressure of the second air cell after increasing the internal pressure of the first air cell. For example, the sound generated can be reduced. For example, air may be supplied to a plurality of air cells in a desired order. In this case, air can be supplied according to the preference of the user 81.

On the other hand, air may be supplied to a plurality of air cells simultaneously. In this case, for example, the posture of the user 81 can be kept substantially constant while supplying air to a plurality of air cells. For example, it is easier for the user 81 to maintain a sleeping position.

In embodiments, the pressure γ1 for the second air cell may be the same or different from the pressure γ1 for the first air cell. The pressure γ1 related to the third air cell may be the same or different from the pressure γ1 related to the first air cell.

An example of the operation in the "wake-up mode" will be described below. The operation of the control device 70 (see FIG. 1(d)) described below may be performed by, for example, the control unit 72 (see FIG. 1(d)).

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating operations in the air mattress and control device according to the embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 18, for example, the sensor 62 (sleep sensor) detects the state of the user 81 lying on the air mattress 110 (step S201). When the state of the user 81 is sleeping, step S201 is continued. When the state of the user 81 is not sleeping, the control device 70 performs a first control operation QP1 (step S202) to lower the internal pressure of the air cell section 10. Internal pressure decreases due to air cell exhaust. For example, the user's back is raised with the internal pressure decreasing and the user's 81 body sunk into the air mattress 110. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the user 81 who has been determined to be in a sleeping state from falling down in the left-right direction. You can perform back-lifting movements while maintaining a more stable posture.

For example, when the state of the user 81 is not sleeping, the variation ΔS of the obtained signal SS exceeds a predetermined threshold. When the variation ΔS exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the control device 70 starts the first control operation QP1.

The first control operation QP1 (step S202) includes, for example, lowering the internal pressure (step S202a) and comparing the internal pressure with the first pressure (step S202b). If the internal pressure is higher than the first pressure, the process returns to step S202a. When the internal pressure is less than or equal to the first pressure, a second control operation QP2 is performed to change the angle of the back bottom.

In the wake-up mode, the angle of the back bottom is increased in the second control operation QP2. In this example, the second control operation QP2 includes starting raising the back of the bed bottom (step S203A) and stopping raising the back of the bed bottom (step S204B).

After this, it is determined whether the state of the user 81 is awake (step S351). When the user 81 is awake, the internal pressure of the air cell section 10 is increased (step S352). Internal pressure increases due to the air cell supply. The internal pressure after being raised is, for example, 2 kPa. For example, it becomes easier for the user 81 to get up.

In step S351, if the state of the user 81 is not awake, the number of back raises is compared with a setting (step S353). If the number of back raises is less than the set value, 1 is added to the number of back raises (step S204C). After this, the angle of the back bottom is decreased (for example, third control operation QP3). For example, the start of lowering the bed bottom (step S204Ba) and the stop of lowering the bed bottom (step S203Aa) are performed. After this, the process returns to step S203A. As a result, back raising (steps S203A and 204B) and back lowering (step S204Ba and step S203Aa) are repeated. This repeated action corresponds to, for example, a "snooze wake-up" action.

In step S353, if the number of back raises is equal to or greater than the set value, for example, the control device 70 supplies external stimulation to the user 81 (step S354). Supplying the external stimulus includes, for example, providing the user 81 with at least one selected from the group consisting of vibration, light, and sound. After step S354, the process advances to step S352.

In this manner, in the embodiment, the control device 70 may further perform the third control operation QP3 (back lowering) that reduces the angle of the back bottom after the second control operation QP2 (back raising). The control device 70 may repeat the second control operation QP2 and the third control operation QP3 a predetermined number of times.

According to the embodiment, a control device and an air mattress that can provide a more comfortable air mattress can be provided.

The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to specific examples. However, the present invention is not limited to these specific examples. For example, a person skilled in the art can carry out the present invention in the same manner by appropriately selecting the specific configuration of each element such as the air cell section included in the air mattress and the control section included in the control device from a known range. , are included in the scope of the present invention as long as similar effects can be obtained.

Combinations of any two or more elements of each specific example to the extent technically possible are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they encompass the gist of the present invention.

In addition, all control devices and air mattresses that can be implemented by appropriately modifying the design by those skilled in the art based on the control device and air mattress described above as embodiments of the present invention are also applicable to the present invention, as long as they include the gist of the present invention. falls within the scope of the invention.

In addition, it is understood that various changes and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the idea of the present invention, and these changes and modifications also fall within the scope of the present invention. .

10... Air cell part, 11... Air cell, 11A... Head block, 11B... Shoulder block, 11C... Waist block, 11D... Buttocks block, 11E... Upper leg block, 11F... Lower leg block, 11p... Tube, 21... First side edge Part, 22... Second side edge part, 31... Pump part, 31d... DC pump, 31s... Pressure sensor, 40... Upper cushion part, 45L... Bottom cover, 45Lf... Fastener, 45U... Top cover, 45Uf... Fastener, 60 ...reception section, 62...sensor, 62a...circuit section, 62b...pressure sensor section, 62c...sensor communication section, 62ca...cable, 62d...sensor device, 62p...first plate body, 62q...second plate body, 62r air Container, 62s...Support protrusion, 62t...Groove, 62u...Signal line, 62v...Detection circuit, 63D...Display section, 63a...First display input section, 63b...Second display input section, 64a-64f...Display input section , 65...Input reception unit, 68...Cable, 70...Control device, 70B...Bed unit, 71...Bottom, 71A...Back actuator, 71B...Knee actuator, 72...Control unit, 72c...Communication unit, 73...Wireless communication terminal , 73c...Communication section, 73d...Input/output screen, 74...Bed leg, 75...Control circuit, 75A...Switch, 75c...Power cable, 78...Storage unit, 81...User, ΔS...Variation, 110...Air mattress , 110c...cable, 310, 340...electric furniture, Dt...duty ratio, Nc, Nm...number of times, OP1 to OP4...first to fourth control operations, QP1 to QP3...first to third control operations, Pr...pressure , SS...signal, Sc...threshold, SigC...intensity, t1...elapsed time, tc...time, tm...time

Claims (2)

A control device that controls in either a normal mode or a sleep mode, the control device comprising:
In the normal mode, the internal pressure is controlled according to an input to the input unit regarding a decrease or increase in the internal pressure of the plurality of air cells,
The sleep mode starts when an input is received to the input reception unit or when a predetermined time comes,
During the sleep mode,
a first operation of setting the internal pressure of at least one of the plurality of air cells to a first value;
after the first operation, a second operation of setting the internal pressure of the at least one of the plurality of air cells to a second value lower than the first value;
A control device that can perform the following. The control device repeats the first operation and the second operation until a first condition is satisfied,
The first condition is that the elapsed time is a predetermined time or more, that the number of repetitions is a predetermined number or more, and that the fluctuation of the obtained signal is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold. The control device according to claim 1, comprising at least one of the following.

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